Dimethoxymethane brings to mind a clear, almost water-like liquid with a faint, sweet odor that lingers in the air. Known in chemistry circles by its formula C3H8O2 or more precisely, CH3OCH2OCH3, this solvent finds its place in laboratories and industry alike. People often recognize it as methylal. Unlike many complex chemicals, its structure comes down to a simple arrangement: two methoxy groups bound to a single central carbon. Dimethoxymethane flows easily, behaves with a predictable volatility, and stands out for quick evaporation. Over the years, its straightforward nature has made it helpful in a wide set of uses, from cleaning processes to fuel blending, and even as a crucial raw material in chemical synthesis.
Looking closer at the physical characteristics, Dimethoxymethane presents itself as a colorless liquid at room temperature, with a molecular weight just above 76 g/mol. Its density sits close to 0.86 g/cm³ at 20°C, lighter than water by a healthy margin. Pour a bit into glassware, and it spreads thin, leaving behind nothing more than a whiff of its faint aroma. The boiling point hovers right around 42°C, lower than many other familiar organic solvents. This low boiling point calls for tight storage and careful handling, especially on warm days or during large-scale manufacturing. Even slight heat leads quickly to vapor. As for melting point, temperatures need to dip well below the frost line before the liquid begins to solidify — at about -97°C, it moves from a clear fluid to a transparent, brittle solid.
In the marketplace and industrial supply chains, Dimethoxymethane typically comes as a bulk liquid. Packaging ranges from drum containers to tankers, with each liter carrying the same characteristics: a substance easy to pour but needing ventilation and secure capping. Unlike some chemicals, there are no common forms like flakes, powders, pearls, or crystals; this one sticks to its liquid roots under nearly every practical temperature. In terms of purity, most grades ship at levels between 99% and 99.5%, since water, methanol, or heavier ethers reduce its usefulness. Buyers look for a clear appearance free of haze or sediment. Key numbers like flash point (below -2°C) and vapor pressure (well above atmospheric at room temperature) remind handlers about the flammability and rapid evaporation, especially when dealing with open containers.
Traders and customs officials classify Dimethoxymethane under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 2909490000, which designates ethers. You’ll see the chemical referenced by this number in invoices, shipping papers, and customs documents. Beyond the HS Code, its CAS Registry Number is 109-87-5, another helpful label for tracking stock and regulatory paperwork. Both identifiers tie together international shipments, allowing clear movement across borders and smoother global trade.
From personal experience handling solvents in lab settings, Dimethoxymethane always earns respect for its flash point and vapor hazards. It lights up with ease in the presence of sparks or open flames, so safe storage far from ignition sources matters just as much as reliable ventilation. Prolonged skin or inhalation exposure often causes irritation. Breathing in the vapor in enclosed areas leads to headaches, drowsiness, or worse if not handled properly, so proper use of gloves, goggles, and fume hoods remains the norm in both small labs and large-scale operations. As a VOC (volatile organic compound), this solvent floats off into the air quickly, adding to local air pollution unless captured and treated. Environmental impact comes most from spills and improper disposal. While it breaks down fairly well under sunlight, regulatory procedures require all waste streams to get collected and handled by professionals.
Dimethoxymethane plays a surprisingly flexible role as a building block in chemical synthesis. In the world of pharmaceuticals, paint removers, and semi-conductor production, its ability to act as a methylating agent and as a solvent speeds up complex reactions. Adding Dimethoxymethane to a reaction vessel often promotes cleaner product separation and sharper yields because of its high volatility and low boiling point. In recent years, as companies search for greener alternatives to heavier and more harmful solvents, this chemical reappears in discussions about lower-residue, fast-evaporating process solutions.
Every interaction with Dimethoxymethane, from drum storage to final disposal, reflects a balance between practical benefits and real chemical hazards. Keeping drums tightly sealed, using proper PPE, and moving toward closed transfer systems aren’t just regulatory requirements; they form the backbone of safe working practice. Some manufacturers already incorporate vapor recovery and recycling systems, not only to limit emissions but also to save money on replacement solvents. While its straightforward properties mean predictable performance, the push toward smaller environmental footprints — something felt across every industry — encourages research into new ways to harness Dimethoxymethane’s value while lowering emissions and worker exposure. For anyone dealing with this chemical — from lab techs to environmental managers — current guidelines and technical sheets provide the foundation, but experience and vigilance fill the gap between theory and safe, responsible practice every day.
